Make-A-Wish

LONG ISLAND, N.Y. — The Long Island Bassmasters, a member of the New York B.A.S.S. Chapter Federation, raised $4,113 for the Make-A-Wish Foundation at the club's annual Earl Glasshagel Charity Tournament.

"Earl Glasshagel was one of the founders of the New York B.A.S.S. Chapter Federation," said Jim Drost, the club's tournament director, event coordinator and president-elect for 2009.

"Thanks to him, we're the 22nd BASS-affiliated club ever formed in the country and, I'm told, the first one north of the Mason-Dixon line. We hold a charity tournament in his honor every year. The proceeds of this year's event— more than $4,000 — went to the Make-A-Wish Foundation."

The tournament was held on Forge Pond, in Riverhead, N.Y., June 29, and 60 two-man teams competed. Contenders had a six-fish limit. Top finishers won cash, and attendees won door prizes, participated in an auction and enjoyed plenty of food.

Eric Fieldstadt and Steve Socko won with 16 pounds, 7 ounces.

"This tournament embodies all of his ideals and what we, as members of the Long Island Bassmasters, think bass fishing should stand for," said Drost. "These kids need a wish and we're going to do everything we can to make their wish happen.

"We work hard to contact and develop sponsors," Drost continued. "That's the key to raising money. Sponsors don't just appear; you have to explain to them why Make-A-Wish is important and how they can help with products and cash. And, you have to make sure they know it's good for their bottom line, too.

"We contact everyone — retail stores, restaurants, construction companies, food suppliers, professional sports teams, professional athletes and professional anglers — anybody we can think of. We thank each and every one of them who helped."